The objective behind the setting up of the museum is to establish a repository of the rich  cultural  heritage of Malaysia. 

The Muzium Perak (Perak Museum) is the oldest museum in the Peninsula.  The building was completed in 1886, and subsequent additions were made in 1900.  

In the early days, the pioneers of museum work in what was then Malaya gave greater emphasis to the natural sciences, especially flora and fauna that had economic significance.  It was only much later that the museum began to document the material culture and the life of the peoples of Malaysia.  

Collection 

There are three collections - anthropology, zoology and local history - with a total of over 3,000 artifacts.  

The anthropological collections include different types of weapons, implements of husbandry, ornaments, dresses, household articles for daily use, musical instruments, symbols and requisites of religions, marriage and death ceremonies collected since the opening of the museum.  

Exhibition/Galleries 

There are four galleries.  Exhibits are mostly displayed in showcases.  Photographs and charts are also utilised.  Temporary exhibitions on various subjects are held periodically.  

Facilities  

There are laboratory and workshop facilities where minor conservation work on specimens is done.  Major work is normally sent to Muzium Negara, Kuala Lumpur, its parent body.  

The modest library contains publications on anthropology, archaeology, natural history and early government.  

Educational Activities  

Research scholars and students are permitted to use the library facilities.  Guided tours in the museum are extended to visitors and students (in groups) on request.  

Publications  

The museum ceased publishing the journal of the Federated Malay States Museums when Muzium Negara took over the publishing of the Federation Museums Journal (New Series) in 1954.  There has been no publications since then.  

Operating Hours 

Admission

Free  

How To Get There

The museum is located in Taiping, approximately 85 km from lpoh, the state capital of Perak.  It is situated opposite the Taiping Prison about 1/3 km from the town centre.